It's harvest time in Central Illinois, and that is stirring up the deer population, causing a spike in deer-car collisions. Trooper Emmanuel Edwards, Safety Information Officer for the Illinois State Police says you can't be too careful this time of year:
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Trooper Edwards says the State of Illinois sees upwards of 20,000 deer-car collisions each year.
The murder of a woman in Oklahoma City has stirred up a national debate. 30 year-old Alton Nolen allegedly killed and beheaded a former coworker at a manufacturing plant in Oklahoma City last week. Although some elements of the crime suggest terrorism, there are those who want to treat it as workplace violence. Nationally syndicated talk show host Jim Bohannon strongly disagrees:
[audio:100114jimbookc.mp3]comment here[/audio]
In addition to killing 54 year-old Colleen Hufford, Nolen allegedly stabbed and seriously injured another employee. He had reportedly been trying to convert his coworkers to Islam. Nolen was Charged with first degree murder earlier this week.
Jim Bohannan's show is heard weekday evenings on Newstalk WTIM.
Police were called to Taylorville High School Friday morning (09-26) on reports of a fight. Assistant Principal Matt Hutchinson reportedly told officers that a student had struck another student. Police arrested a female juvenile. She was reportedly taken to Taylorville Police Department, where she was processed and released to her parent.
A local woman was sent to the hospital Saturday after an accident. According to reports, Angelina Smith of Taylorville was headed south on Route 48 when she lost control and slid across the northbound lane, smashing into the ditch. Smith's 2000 Dodge Coupe ended up on its side. She was taken to Taylorville Memorial Hospital for treatment of injuries described in the report as non-life threatening.
Area police agencies continue to warn drivers: with the harvest on, deer are more active than ever. A local man found that out the hard way.
Saturday (09-27), 45 year-old Jared Goodman of Taylorville was reportedly driving south on County Highway 7, in a rural area a few miles east of Taylorville. Goodman told police he was cresting a hill near 1450 North Road when a deer ran out into the road. He said he couldn't avoid hitting it. Goodman was apparently not injured, but his car was damaged on the front end and hood.
The Christian County Sheriff's Office reports processing several arrests over the last few days.
Sunday (09-28), 27 year-old Joseph Ishmael of Pana was picked up. He was reportedly wanted on a bond forfeiture warrant for domestic battery.
25 year-old Kaylene Reber of Taylorville was arrested Saturday (09-27), reportedly for driving under the influence of alcohol.
38 year-old Aaron C. Davis of Tayloville was arrested Saturday, accused of theft of services.
Police also report arresting 40 year-old Dilbert Dilly of Taylorville Friday, on a charge of driving with a suspended or revoked license.
A Taylorville woman was arrested on three drug charges after a traffic stop Friday. 20 year-old Patience Sherman was stopped by a Taylorville officer for a vehicle code violation. After further investigation, she was reportedly arrested on charges of possession of a controlled substance, possession of cannabis, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
What started as an early morning speeding stop ended up with two people being arrested.
Just before 4:00 am Saturday (09-29), a Taylorville officer reportedly saw a vehicle speeding near the intersection of North Cherokee and Bidwell Streets. The officer followed the car to the Palomino Club parking lot on North Webster. After a brief investigation, 24 year-old Brian P. Jaeger was reportedly arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.
Jaeger's passenger, 19 year-old Karley R. State of Sherman, agreed to be tested for alcohol, a test which reportedly came back positive. The report goes on to say that drug paraphenalia was found in State's purse.
Both Jaeger and State were processed and released.
THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:
Jared Becker, 35, of Taylorville was arrested on September 29 for failure to appear.
ACCIDENTS:
Dennis Klump, 59, of Taylorville was traveling west bound on 1600 North Road and stopped at the intersection of 1250 East. Klump said he looked both ways and did not see any traffic and proceeded across 1250 East Road. Klump said he did not see the car and hti the drivers side of Brandon Griffiths, 16, of Taylorville. Griffiths was pushed into the corn field and received drivers side damage, and Klump received front end damage. Brandon Griffiths and passenger Melanie Sidwell, 33, of Taylorville were transported to Taylorville Memorial Hospital by private vehicle with minor injuries. Dennis Klump was issued a citation for failure to yield at a stop sign.
Nicole Hunt, 25, of Decatur came to a stop sign at 1380 East and McAdam Drive. Hunt turned to sharp and hit the stop sign causing damage down the passenger side of the vehicle she was driving.
THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:
On September 24, Walmart advised they had two females detained for retail theft. Both juveniles were arrested and transported to the Taylorville Police Department and were processed and released.
On September 29, officers went to 836 East Thompson to locate a make subject with a warrant for his arrest. Subsequent to their arrival, Jared L. Becker, 35, of Taylorville was taken to the Christian County Correctional Center in lieu of bond.
The Taylorville Kiwanis Club held their 60th annual officer installation and banquet, in lieu of their weekly meeting Tuesday at noon at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.
Following the meal and invocation, outgoing Kiwanis Club president Chris Weittenhiller presided over recognizing Kiwanis officers, board members and committee chairs for their work in helping children and youth in the Taylorville community.
The Kiwanian of the Year Award went to Larry Kemner (left) for his efforts in all of the club's many fund raising activities thru-out the year. Outgoing president Weittenhiller presented the award to Kemner.
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Blain Cornwell was installed as the new president of the club, by Illinois-Iowa Kiwanis District Governor Pattie Heath.
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Heath had these comments about the Taylorville club and its 60th anniversary.
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Also present was Kiwanis Lieutenant Governor Cary Holman.
Charter members Ralph Harrison (left), who now resides in South Dakota; and local resident and Kiwanis member Herman Altman, were also recognized for their years of service to the club.
The club's many projects to help local children and youth this past Kiwanis year, included Coats for Kids, Kiwanis Park, High School Key Club, high school scholarships, YMCA programs, and Camp Care-A-Lot.
The Taylorville Kiwanis Club is part of global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time. Weekly meetings are held Tuesdays at noon at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium. For information on the club, go to taylorvillekiwanis.com.
New officers installed at the 60th annual Taylorville Kiwanis officer installation banquet include, from the left:
President-elect Pastor Bill Kern; newly installed president Blain Cornwell; secretary Diane Beatty; and treasurer Dan Sneed.
The Christian County United Way has kicked off its annual Fund Drive. One of the agencies that benefit from the United Way is The Christian County YMCA. Y Director Chris Weitenhiller says the help they receive from the United Way is vital:
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The United Way's goal this year is $155,000.
Halloween is now just weeks away, and it's time for parents to start thinking about keeping their kids safe. Tara Winter, Director of Public Affairs for the American Red Cross says when it comes to Halloween, there's no such thing as being too cautious:
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Drivers are reminded to be extra careful on the streets around Halloween, which will be Friday the 31st of October.
On Tuesday, September 30, 2014 from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, the Christian County Health Department, Taylorville Fire Department, and the Christian County Emergency Management Agency will partner together to provide Christian County residents with a community service of a Drive Thru Flu Shot Clinic and at the same time practice emergency preparedness exercises. The Drive Thru Flu Shot Clinic will allow residents to complete the one-page form; provide method of payment; and get their flu vaccination while staying in their car. The cost is $25 and cash or a check made payable to “CCHD” is acceptable. The following health insurances can be billed: Medicare Part B, UMWA-The Funds Contract Only, Retired or Current State Employees, and Retired Railroad Employees. Please have your proof of health insurance easily accessible. This Drive Thru Flu Shot Clinic is being offered to those who are over 18 years of age. Last year’s Drive Thru Clinic start to completion times were between four minutes and nine minutes per car. The Christian County Health Department’s office will be closed on September 30, 2014.
At the same time, Mike Crews, Emergency Management Coordinator, and the Taylorville Fire Department will be exercising Christian County’s Food and Water Distribution Plan. There will be one question on the form that asks “number in each household.” This information allows us to calculate the amount of potable water and Heater Meal® or Meals Ready to Eat (MRE) that would be needed in a public health emergency.
If you have any questions or would like to provide feedback, please call the Christian County Health Department at 824-4113.
About 150 teachers and students were sent to the hospital from North Mac Jr. High School in Girard recently, apparent victims of carbon monoxide poisoning. The incident has brought calls for mandatory carbon monoxide detectors in Illinois schools.
Representative Wayne Rosenthal of Morrisonville says having the detectors is a great idea, but spending decisions should be made at the local level:
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Fortunately, none of the victims in Girard died of the carbon monoxide poisoning.
Local officials are serious about enforcing burning ordinances, as a Taylorville man learned last week.
Taylorville Police reports say they were called to 525 South Main Street in reference to an illegal burn. Cops say they found an unattended fire with various items burning. After extinguishing the blaze, officers reportedly issued 59 year-old Steven A. Leonard a City Ordinance Violation for an illegal burn.
THE TAYLORVILLE SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT REPORTS THR FOLLOWING ARRESTS:
Delbert Dilly, 40, of Taylorville was arrested on September 26 for driving with a suspended/revoked license.
Patience Sherman, 20, of Taylorville was arrested on September 26 for possession of a controlled substance.
Joseph Ishmael, 27, of Pana was arrested on September 28 on a bond forfeiture warrant for domestic battery.
Kaylene Reber, 25, of Taylorville was arrested on September 27 for Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol.
ACCIDENTS:
On September 27, Jared Goodman, 45, of Taylorville was traveling south on County Highway #7 and crested the hill by 1450 North Road. He said a deer ran into the roadway and he collided with the deer. Goodman received damage to the front fender and hood.
On September 27, Angelina Smith of Taylorville was south bound on Illinois Route 48. Smith lost control of her 2000 Dodge Coupe and slid across the north bound land of traffic striking the railroad ditch or the east side of the roadway. Her vehicle came to rest on its side. Smith was transported to Taylorville Memorial Hospital for non life threatening injuries.
THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:
On September 26, a Taylorville police officer stopped a vehicle for IVC violation. Upon investigation, Patience Sherman, 20, of Taylorville was arrested for possession of a controlled substance, possession of cannibis < 2.5 grams and possession of drug paraphernalia.
On September 27, Aaron C. Davis, 38, of Taylorville was arrested for theft of services.
On September 27 at approximately 3:54 am a Taylorville Police Officer was out with a vehicle in the parking lot of the Palomino Club after observing it traveling at a higher rate of speed on East Bidwell Stree. The suspect, Karley R. State, 19, of Sherman was a front passenger and exited the passenger side door and walked around a parked car. Later, Stade was located sitting in the parked car. Further investigation led officers to believe she had been consuming alcohol. State submitted to P.B.A. which showed an alcohol concentration of 0.123 percent. She asked the officer to retrieve her purse from the parked car. Inside the purse was drug paraphernalia. Stade was processed and released on a Notice To Appear.
On September 26 at 8:22 am, An officer was dispateched to Taylorville High School in reference to a battery. Matt Hutchinson said a female juvenile struck another juvenile. The female was transported to the Taylorville Police Department where she was processed and released to her parent.
On September 27 at approximately 3:54 am., a TPD was patrolling the intersection of North Cherokee Street and Bidwell Street. The officer observed the vehicle approach the stop intersection and continue on East Bidwell Street at an elevated rate of speed that was confirmed with radar and the officer followed the vehicle to the parking lot of the Palomino Club. Contact was made wiht the driver, Brian P. Jaeger, 24, of Taylorville. After a brief investigation, Jaeger was arrested for DUI. He was processed and released on a driver's license and cash bond.
THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:
SEPTEMBER 25 4 EMS
SEPTEMBER 26 3 EMS, 2 Motor Vehicle Accidents
SEPTEMBER 27 2 EMS, 1 Motor Vehicle Accidents
SEPTEMBER 28 1 EMS, 1 Motor Vehicle Accident, 1 Smoke odor
SEPTEMBER 29 1 EMS
The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest Committee met for the final time before this weekend's event, on Monday afternoon in the Chamber board room.
Event chairperson Greg Hornbuckle told Regional Radio News after the meeting, that this year's event footprint will be bigger than past years.
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And, Hornbuckle said the side streets off the Taylorville square, will be used this year.
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Part of the increased footprint, says Hornbuckle, is the 175th anniversary celebration of Taylorville and Christian County, which is also happening this weekend on the square and at the Historical Society grounds, with a shuttle running between the 2 venues.
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We asked Hornbuckle what one or two items he was looking forward to the most this weekend.
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The annual Chillifest is the Chamber's biggest fund-raiser of the year, and also hosts 2 days of International Chilli Society judging.
For more information on the Taylorville Chillifest as well as the 175th Anniversary of Taylorville and Christian County, go to chillifest-dot-info, and that's Chillifest with 2-L's.
A Taylorville business has announced its decision to close.
Bolinda's Shoe Store opened in March of 2013, on the east side of the square. The business had to move locations as a result of their building collapsing on July 31st. They re-opened August 14th in the former Doc's Maytag building on the north side of the square.
In a Facebook posting on Friday, owners Bob and Linda Farris said that the store is closing the doors for good at the end of November. They have begun a “Going Out of Business” sale with 40% off all shoes, and all sales are final. The store will also no longer accept shoe repairs or orders for diabetic shoes.
Christian County Clerk Linda Curtin has informed Regional Radio News, that her office will be open for absentee voting, weekdays from 8 to 4. Saturday voting will also be available starting October Eleventh from 8 in the morning til noon.
When voting at the clerk's office, voters will be using a paper ballot which will be scanned.
Voters can also call for a ballot to be mailed to their home, at no charge. The Christian County Clerk's Office can be reached at 824-4969. The office will be closed for the Columbus Day Holiday on October 13.
The Central Illinois Food Bank is in the middle of a heated competition, and you can Help. The Food Bank's Public Relations Manager Krista Lisser explains how:
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The Bank's Mobile Food Pantry will be in Taylorville Saturday morning at 10:00 at the High School. There are no prequalifications for being eligible to access the goods. You're advised to arrive early, and bring a container of some kind for carrying the food.
At last week's Taylorville City Council Meeting, the council denied a request from a local man to rezone property in the 1700 block of East Main Cross, mainly because of protests from neighbors. Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton says the council is always cautious about zoning changes:
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The property owner wanted to change the zoning from residential to commercial. With the council's no vote, he'll have to start the process all over again if he wants to continue to pursue the project.
THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:
Brent Getx, 22, of Pana was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant fortheft uneder $300. Previous conviction.
Michael Alberts, of Taylorville, was arrested on September 25 on a bond forfeiture warrant for issuance of warrant.
THE TAYLORVILL POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:
On September 22m officers were sent to 525 South Main in reference to an illegal burn. Upon arrival, officers discovered an unattended fire burning various items. Subsequent to officers putting the fire out, Steven A. Leonard, 59, of Taylorville was issued a City Ordinance for Violation for the illegal burn.
In high school football Friday night:
A Christian County convenience store nearly wound up with a new drive-thru after an accident this week. According to police reports, Luke Allen of Taylorville was pulling into the parking lot of the Village Pantry in Stonington Tuesday (09-23) when he apparently lost control and struck the front door area of the building.
Allen reportedly told officers his flip-flop had gotten stuck on the accelerator pedal.
His vehicle suffered damage to the front bumper, hood, side panels and headlight. No injuries were reported. The reports don't specify what damage the crash did to the store.
Cowden-Herrick Schools announce that nominating petitions for membership on the Board of Education for Cowden-Herrick C.U.S.D. No. 3A may be picked up anytime at the County Clerk Office, in Shelbyville. The first day petitions may be filed is Monday, December 15, 2014, and the last day for filing such petitions is Monday, December 22nd. Petitions shall be filed in the County Clerk Office in Shelbyville, Illinois, on weekdays between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M.
Four seats on the Board of Education are up for election. The term of office has expired for Dale Mahaffey, Jason Barnes, Mike Wheeler, and Mike Myers.
To be eligible to serve a school board candidate must be, on the date of election, a citizen of the United States, at least 18 years old, a resident of the State of Illinois and the school district for at least one year immediately preceding the election and a registered voter.
The school board election will be held on Tuesday, April 7, 2015.
2 of the Miller Media Group Radio Stations in Taylorville, asked listeners to donate to this year's United Way of Christian County campaign on Thursday during the annual United Way Telethon.
And, listeners responded with some 26-hundred 50-dollars being raised to benefit the 28 agencies funded by the United Way of Christian County.
M-M-G president Randal J. Miller, and United Way executive director Malia Hepburn, co-hosted the telethon from 8:30 til 10 Thursday morning on Newstalk WTIM THE BIG 870 AM and 96.3 FM. The telethon then aired for the first time from 10 til noon, on WRAN groovy 97.3.
During the telethon on WRAN, Hepburn shared with listeners how she got involved with the United Way.
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One of the funded agencies is the Taylorville Community Garden, and Pastor Bill Kerns talked about how children in the neighborhood where the garden is located, have offered to help.
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Between the 2 stations, 26-hundred 50-dollars were raised for toward year's United Way campaign.
The Miller Media Group and the United Way thank all the businesses and residents that called in their pledges. This fall's United Way fund-raising campaign continues thru mid-October, with a goal of 155-thousand dollars.
The Christian County United Way recently kicked off its 2014 fund raising drive. During a Telethon on Regional Radio, Malia Hepburn and several others gave brief descriptions of just a few of the United Way agencies:
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The local United Way is helping to support 28 different agencies this year. Hepburn says their goal is $155,000.
Taylorville Police arrested two people in separate incidents Tuesday (09-23), for driver's license violations.
Alert officers on routine patrol reportedly saw a woman behind the wheel who they believed to be driving illegally. After further investigation, 20 year-old Chloe Wendell of Taylorville was reportedly arrested on a charge of driving on a suspended license.
Just before 2:00am Tuesday, an officer stopped an Owaneco woman for an unspecified vehicle code violation. According to the report, 30 year-old Jaqueline R. Girard was subsequently arrested for driving while her license was suspended.
An accident last Friday (9-19) left two vehicles damaged and may have injured a local woman. In a report released the other day, Taylorville Police say they were called to the intersection of Cheney Street and Park Avenue about a collision. 72 year-old Jean Scallions of Taylorville was reportedly stopped waiting for traffic in her 2001 Honda Odyssey when she was rear-ended by a vehicle being driven by 49 year-old Marcy Montgomery of Taylorville.
Montgomery's vehicle was towed from the scene. Scallions reportedly told officers she had a sore neck and would seek medical treatment on her own.
Police say Montgomery was issued a citation for failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident.
There has been another accident involving a deer.
In a report released this week, police say 56 year-old Gregory Webb of Decatur was headed south on Route 48 just north of Palmer last Friday, when a deer appeared in his path. Webb was reportedly unable to avoid striking the animal with his 2013 Mercedes.
This Saturday's Farmers Market will feature what has become an annual event. Market Manager Ed Downs says they will be going to the dogs:
THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:
Vontrell Maxwell, 20, of Chicago, was arrested on September 24th on a bond forfeiture warrant.
ACCIDENT:
On September 23, Luke Allen of Taylorville was coming into the Village Pantry parking lot in front of the Village Pantry gas station. Allen stated he was trying to step on the break but his flip flop had gotten stuck on the accelerator. Allen struck the front door of the Village Pantry with the front door area of the building. Allen had minor damage to the front bumper, hood, side panels and a cracked headlight.
THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:
SEPTEMBER 22 2 EMS
SEPTEMBER 23 1 EMS, 1 Illegal Burn
SEPTEMBER 24 2 EMS, 1 Automatic Alarm
SEPTEMBER 25 1 EMS
One of the fastest growing crimes involves identity theft. Crooks often use your Social Security Number to access your accounts, so it's important to protect it. Jack Myers, Public Affairs Specialist for Social Security, says you can usually just leave your card at home:
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Myers says you should also be cautious about giving out your Social Security Number.
Sarah Bush Lincoln Hospital in Mattoon has recently completed construction of a new building. According to Lindsay Williamson, Manager of Fitness for the hospital, says the new structure is their “Center for Healthy Living”:
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Go to sarabush.org to find out more.
Christian County TRIAD is warning you about a new scam. TRIAD's Richard Peters says he received a phony letter last week:
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Peters says if you receive such a letter, you should turn it over to police.
Hall's Harley-Davidson in Springfield recently hosted their Fall Customer Appreciation party. The event also coincided with the introduction of the new 2015 Harley-Davidson products. General Manager, Diane, shared the excitement of the reintroduction of the Road Glide and a new 3 wheeler, the Free Wheeler.
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Hall's is much more than just motorcycles. With a 10,000 square foot showroom, they offer something for everybody in the Harley-Davidson line.
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Hall's Harley-Davidson is also raising funds for the American Diabetes Association through the sale of several items including wrist bands and pins.
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Hall's-Harley Davidson is located at 2301 Dirksen Parkway in Springfield.
THE CHRISTIANCOUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:
Douglas Michael Ohl, 34, of Assumption was arrested on September 23rd on a bond forfeiture warrant for contempt of court.
ACCIDENT:
On September 19, Gregory Webb, 56, of Decatur was southbound on Illinois Rt. 48 approximately one-quarter mile south of 775 East Road when a deer entered the roadway. Webb was unable to avoid striking the deer with his 2013 Mercedes Sedan.
On September 18, Luke Puckett, 44, of Stonington was backing out of a parking stall. Juan Brooks, 58, of Florissant, Missouri was pulling into the parking lot and had stopped behind Puckett to let people walk across the parking lot. Puckett backed out of the parking stall, not seeing Brooks behind him and struck Brooks 2015 Buick Lacrosse.
THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:
On September 23 at 1:45 a Taylorville police officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for an IVC violation. Subsequent to the stop, Jacquline R. Girard, 30, of Owaceco was arrested for driving while license were suspended.
On September 23, officers were on a routine patrol when they saw a female they knew to have a valid Illinois drivers license. Upon further investigation, Chloe Windell, 20, of Taylorville was arrested for driving on a suspended license.
On September 19, officers were dispatched to a two vehicle acciedent on Cheney and Park Ave. Marcy Montgomers, 49, of Taylorville state that Jean Scallions, 72, of Taylorville stopped for another vehicle ans she was not able to stop and struck the rear of Scallions 2001 Honda Odyssey. Scallions stated a vehicle stopped in front of her and she stopped and she was struck in the rear end by Montgomery. Montgomery was vehicle was towed from the scene. Scallions stated her neck was a little sore and she was going to the hospital on her own. Marcy Montgomery was issued a citation for failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident.
The investigation continues into the death of a local woman at a train crossing early Sunday morning (9-21). 66 year-old Kathleen A. Rhodes of Taylorville was pronounced dead at the scene after her vehicle was struck by a Norfolk and Southern train near the entrance to Manner's Park.
Illinois turns out to be among the worst states for train accidents, according to the most recently available statistics. In 2012, Illinois saw 25 people killed and 34 seriously injured by trains. The six-county Chicago area accounted for nearly three quarters of the accidents.
A sizable portion of the deaths and injuries are to people who are walking on or loitering around railroad tracks. In the 2012 statistics, they accounted for 19 of the 25 recorded deaths. Authorities remind the public that it's considered trespassing to be on or near the tracks in most areas. Violators could be fined up to $150 for a first offense.
Illinois, with over 7,300 miles of track, was surpassed only by California and Texas for railroad accidents. As always, the public is cautioned to always be extremely careful around tracks.
Some of your neighbors in Christian County don't know where their next meal will come from. That's known as being “food insecure” and you might be surprised at how common it is. If you fall into this category, you should know that there is help coming this weekend. Krista Lisser, Public Relations Manager for the Central Illinois Food Bank says the Mobile Food Pantry will visit Taylorville:
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The food is distributed on a first come first served basis. It goes fast, so you're advided to get there early. You don't need to have any proof of income level or need in order to access the goods.
Again, the Central Illinois Food Bank Mobile Food Pantry will be at Taylorville High School this Saturday (9-27) starting at 10am.
Neurofibromatosis is a common ailment, yet most people don't know what it is. “NF” as it's known can manifest itself in dozens of different ways, making it hard to diagnose. Pete Oswald tells Regional Radio News that his brother Sam suffers from the neurological condition, and it has caused him a number of medical problems. Oswald says they are planning an event to raise money and awareness:
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If you want to learn more about NF, go online to nfmidwest.org.
Taylorville Police are investigating an incident that occurred September 15th at Taylorville Junior High School.
Police tell Regional Radio News that a complaint was filed alleging an incident between at juvenile student and a member of the Taylorville Junior High School staff.
No names have been released, and police say an investigation into the incident is being conducted, including interviews and potential video of the incident being reviewed by Taylorville Police Detectives and the Christian County State's Attorney's Office.
The Taylorville Kiwanis Club for their Tuesday luncheon program, heard about the state's medical cannabis pilot program, during their meeting at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.
Tina Sekimi from the Division of Medical Cannabis at the Illinois Department of Public Health, told the club about her new division which registers patients that want to have access to medical cannabis.
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The 4-year pilot program began registering Illinois residents whose last names end with A thru L on September 2nd. Registration for those people continues thru October 31st, then registration opens for those whose last names end in M to Z.
Sekimi said there are a host of requirements that those applying for access to medical cannabis, have to adhere to. You can apply on-line on the Illinois Department of Public Health web site, or obtain a written form by calling the agency's toll-free number which is listed on their web site.
Applicants must certify thru their doctor, that they have one of 30 debilitating medical conditions as outlined in the state law. Once they've been approved, they will receive a photo ID which must be used when they purchase the allowed 2-and-a-half ounces every 2 weeks.
Sekimi added once the program begins next year, there will be 60 dispensaries across the state where the medical cannabis can be purchased. Those are the only locations statewide where the drug will be available; it will not be available as a prescription or at pharmacies.
In other Kiwanis news, Kiwanis treasurer Dan Sneed reported that last weekend's Kiwanis Peanut Days across the city, netted the club just under 51-hundred dollars for local Kiwanis projects for children and youth.
The Taylorville Kiwanis Club is part of global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time. Weekly meetings are held Tuesdays at noon at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium. For information on the club, go to taylorvillekiwanis.com.
The Christian County Sheriff's Office reports processing a few arrests in recent days.
A Pana man faces two charges after an incident Friday evening. According to Pana Police reports, 41 year-old Bill J. Ward of Pana faces charges of public fighting, a local ordinance violation, and with possession of a controlled substance. Ward was reportedly issued a citation for the alleged fighting. He was processed at the Christian County Sheriff's Office on the drug charge.
An accident with a farm truck Saturday afternoon (9-20) seriously damaged a Pana woman's car.
According to Pana Police reports, around 3pm Saturday, 61 year-old Linda J. Worker was stopped in traffic westbound, near the Pizza Man
Restaurant at the intersection of Jackson and Pine. Meanwhile 32 year-old Matthew L. Berner of Rosamond was approaching from behind in his 2003 International Farm truck.
Berner reportedly failed to slow down in time to avoid smashing into the rear right side of Worker's 2011 Chevy Impala. Police say the car was seriously damaged. Berner's truck sustained minor damage. Neither driver was reported injured.
Berner was cited for failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident. Despite the reported serious damage, Worker was apparently able to drive her car from the scene.
Pana Police are reporting a pair of arrests related to domestic battery.
Early Monday morning (9-22) a complaint was made about domestic violence at 705 East 2nd Street. After a quick investigation, cops arrested 32 year-old Cory O. Scribner of Pana on a failure to appear warrant, on an original charge of possession of a controlled substance.
35 year-old Amy Sue Northway of Pana was arrested on a failure to appear warrant in Effingham County, for a reported theft charge.
Scribner and Northway were both taken to the Christian County Jail, where they were held in lieu of bond.
Scribner and another resident, 32 year-old Jeanette R.File of Pana, filed domestic battery charges against each other. The complaints were forwarded to the Christian County States Attorney's office.
In a separate incident, Pana Police arrested a local man after he was accused of assaulting a 33 year-old woman. 36 year-old Eric J. Klein of Pana was arrested early last Friday morning on a domestic battery charge.
During halftime of Friday night's homecoming football game, Jason Young, general manager and Angel Rabideu, sales representative, from Landmark Chevrolet Buick Cadillac, in Taylorville, presented a check in the amount of $966 to the Tornado Sports Boosters. This is the the second check the local auto dealer has donated. Landmark of Taylorville is sponsoring Tornado Sports by donating $10 for every first down that the Tornadoes achieve this football season and $3 for every three pointer made by the Tornado boys and girls basketball teams this year. The check presented Friday was for last years three pointers. Landmark presented a check in the amount of $1410. The total amount donated by Landmark Chevrolet Buick Cadillac is $2376.
THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:
Christopher Jackson, 36, of Springfield was arrested on September 22nd for possession of drug paraphernalia.
THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:
On September 21st, officers were out at 1307 West Park Avenue in reference to two males threatening to beat up the complainant. After an investigation, Josh McLeod was arrested for public intoxication and was transported to the Taylorville Police Department, processed and released with a notice to appear.
On September 19th, officers were out at Route Mart with Michael Droke who they knew had a valid Christian County warrant. Michael Droke, 24, of Taylorville was arrested and transported to the Christian County Sheriff's Office.
On September 20th, officers were dispatched to Walmart to a retail theft that had occurred. Upon further investigation, Dalton Runge, 18, of Taylorville and Baxter German, 18, of Taylorville were arrested for retail theft.
80's rocker George Thorogood will make an appearance next month at the Effingham Performance Center. According to EPC Director Rich Jorn, the facility has an interesting history:
[audio:epcjorngeneric092214.mp3]comment here[/audio]
George Thorogood, who is best remembered for the hit “Bad to the Bone” appears on October 7th. Upcoming shows will feature comedy legend Jerry Lewis in late October. Also, country music stars Clint Black, Ronnie Milsap and Mel Tillis are all scheduled in coming months.
Area taxpayers are bracing for a ton of new regulations related to Obamacare. Laurie Henry of the local H and R Block stores tells Regional Radio that people receiving government subsidies for their health insurance will have to file a form 1095 this year, or suffer the consequences:
[audio:henryhandrform1095092314.mp3]comment here[/audio]
H and R Block in Taylorville is at 926 West Spresser. The Nokomis location is at 107 East State Street.
In her report, Bailey Hancock, recreation director for the Taylorville Park District, announced the addition of a Tim Bell piano that was donated by Alan Jackson, an employee of the Taylorville Lake Department. The monthly park district meeting was abbreviated with very little new business to be enacted. Hancock also reported on the many activities that had taken place at the park, including a car show on the 7th, the Senior Dinner on Thursday the 11th with fried chicken donated by Wal-Mart, the Brooklynn Cox Memorial Run the 13th and on the 19th the Kids are Kids dance. Football at the Don Bragg Complex had also been very successful.
The Maintenance Superintendant reported on the construction of a new duck house and that the lights at the Bragg Complex are up and working. The board also decided on the date of Friday, January 9th, 2015, to hold their Employee Christmas Party. The meeting was adjourned at 7:12 pm.
McDonald's restaurants in Taylorville, Pana, Shelbyville and Vandalia are giving away free coffee this week during National Coffee Week.
As part of promoting their McCafe coffees, they hid a 3-foot coffee cup in front of the Taylorville Fire Department on Monday morning, then clues were given during a live broadcast on Miller Media Group radio station WMKR Genuine Country 94-point-3 for listeners to find the cup. Patty Eller found the cup in less than an hour, and won free coffee for a year from McDonald's.
Eller visited with WMKR's Danny Russell, who broadcast his Morning Show from the Taylorville McDonald's, about finding the gigantic McCafe' coffee cup.
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McDonald's owner operator Brad Davis said Eller had won free coffee at the Taylorville McDonald's for a year.
[audio:DavisaudioSept2214.mp3]comment here[/audio]
The WMKR live broadcast from the Taylorville McDonald's was part of the restuarant's celebration of National Coffee Week. The free coffee giveaway continues thru this week.
Area police agencies are reporting some recent domestic battery arrests.
Friday morning (9-19), Taylorville cops were called to 917 East Oak Street in response to a reported dispute taking place. After a quick investigation, 38 year-old Shawn A. Grubagh and 30 year-old Kelly C. Barry, both of Taylorville, were arrested on domestic battery charges. Both were processed by Tayloville Police, then held in the Christian County Jail in lieu of bond.
Police reportedly arrested 35 year-old Eric Klein of Pana Friday morning (9-19). He's charged with domestic battery.
A Taylorville woman faces serious charges after alleged embezzlement. According to police reports, 49 year-old Elizabeth Frisina was arrested Thursday (9-18) on a class one felony charge of theft.
Frisina is accused of stealing thousands of dollars from a former employer. According to Frisina's Facebook page, she used to work for the First Presbyterian Church in Taylorville.
According to the police reports, Frisina is free after posting $2,000 bond.
Christian County Coroner Amy Winans has released the name of a woman killed in a train-car accident near Manner's Park early Sunday Morning. Dead is 66 year-old Kathleen A. Rhodes of Taylorville.
According to a news release from the Taylorville Police Department, Christian County 911 got a call a few minutes after 2:00 am Sunday about an accident involving a train and a vehicle. When officers arrived near the intersection of South Main and Palmer Streets, they reportedly found the vehicle along the tracks, fully engulfed in flames. The Fire Department was summoned, and extinguished the blaze.
Christian County Coroner Amy Winans declared Rhodes dead at the scene. Her body was reportedly taken to Bloomington, where an autopsy is scheduled for Monday (9-22).
The incident remains under investigation by the Taylorville Police Department, the Christian County Coroner's Office and Norfolk and Southern Railroad.
The City of Taylorville is no stranger to train related deaths. Back in June of 2007, two pedestrians were struck by trains in Taylorville in one day. In a tragic coincidence, the separate incidents occurred within three hours of each other. One man was killed, while another was seriously injured.
STARTS WITH AUDIO
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That's Taylorville native Joyce Taylor, who left her hometown for the glitz of Hollywood, and became a successful stage and screen actress and recording star. She appeared in countless movies and TV shows, including Wagon Train, The Untouchables and Ozzie and Harriet.
Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton says he is in talks with Taylor about possibly returning for a visit during the city's upcoming 175th Anniversary Celebration:
[audio:mayorrejoycetaylor092314.mp3]comment here[/audio]
The 175th Anniversary Celebration will coincide with this year's Chillifest, October 4th and 5th.
THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:
James Slaybaugh, 60, of Taylorville was arrested on September 20th for production of cannabis plants.
Bille Ward, 41, of Assumption, was arrested on September 20th for possession of a controlled substance.
Michael Droke, 25, of Taylorville was arrested on September 19th for theft under $300 with a previous conviction.
Blake Prasun, 21, of Taylorville was arrested on September 21st for Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol.
Cory Scribner, 32, of Pana was arrested on September 22nd for issuance of warrant.
ACCIDENTS:
On September 14m Tiny Walker79, of Taylorville was in the private campground for Dominion Power Plant just off Rt. 104 west of Tovey. She was turning around and had pulled forward and came to a stop. Walker then shifted in reverse, there was a loud noise and her 2011 Honda CRV lurched backward down the embankment into the water and turned back toward the bank and came to rest when it hit the embankment again.
THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:
SEPTEMBER 19- 1 EMS
SEPTEMBER 20 - 4 EMS
SEPTEMBER 21- Car vs. train with fire Webster Street Railroad Crossing, 1 EMS
SEPTEMBER 22 - 2 EMS, 1 Automatic Alarm
THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT HELD THEIR ANNUAL AWARDS BANQUET SATURDAY NIGHT AT THE MOOSE LODGE.
MANY PAST AND PRESENT FIRE DEPARTMENT MEMBERS WERE RECOGNIZED FOR THEIR SERVICE.
CODY ROGERS, NICK HACKNEY, TOM CAMPBELL AND JOSH REID RECEIVED MEDALS FOR SAVING LIVES AT A 2010 STRUCTURE FIRE.
FOUR MEN WERE ALSO RECOGNIZED FOR SAVING A LIFE IN A DECEMBER 2013. THOSE RECOGNIZED WERE MATT PETERS, MATT ADERMANN, MATT PHILLIPS AND KYLE RENTFROW.
SPECIAL HONOR WENT TO STEVE WITT WHO WAS RECOGNIZED FOR RECEIVING HIS TWENTY-FIVE YEAR AWARD WITH THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT.
THE STAFF AT WTIM/WMKR/WRAN RADIO WERE RECOGNIZED AND RECEIVED A SPECIAL PLAQUE FOR THE OUTSTANDING MANNER IN WHICH THEY REPRESENT THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT THROUGH THE LOCAL MEDIA.
A car-train accident in Taylorville early Sunday morning (9-21) has claimed a life.
According to a news release from the Taylorville Police Department, Christian County 911 got a call a few minutes after 2:00 am Sunday about an accident involving a train and a vehicle. When officers arrived at the intersection of South Main and Palmer Streets, they reportedly found the vehicle along the tracks, fully engulfed in flames. The Fire Department was summoned, and extinguished the blaze.
Christian County Coroner Amy Winans declared the apparent driver of the vehicle dead at the scene. The unidentified victim was reportedly taken to Bloomington, where an autopsy is scheduled for Monday (9-22).
The incident remains under investigation by the Taylorville Police Department, the Christian County Coroner's Office and Norfolk and Southern Railroad.
As heard on Newstalk WTIM 96.3, Illinois defeated Texas State by a final score of 42 to 35.
As heard on WMKR Genuine Country 94.3, EIU defeated Austine Peay by a final score of 63 to 7.
St. Mary's Catholic Church in Taylorville is holding its annual Fall Fiesta this weekend.
The event features attractions for all ages.
For the kids there's a tent with games and contests, and pony rides will be available.
Also raffles, and new this year, a bags tournament sponsored by Crimestoppers.
Another new event this year is the Tractor Pull sponsored by CC Seeds.
Plenty of food is available the entire 3 days, including the Family Style Chicken Dinner on Sunday.
The Fiesta also features a beer tent and live music all 3 days. The Fall Fiesta continues through Sunday at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Taylorville , at 108 W. Adams.
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Hunters with disabilities can avail themselves of a new hunting blind installed in time for the busy fall hunting season at Eagle Creek State Recreation Area on Lake Shelbyville.
Eagle Creek SRA Site Superintendent Richard Glazebrook said the blind structure was constructed by Eagle Creek campground host Mike Welch.
Glazebrook says that the blind was designed with disabled hunters in mind, so that they will be able to see out of the blind, shoot out of the blind in every direction, be protected from the weather, and have a plenty of room for a wheelchair and a buddy.
Eagle Creek SRA staff provided the materials for the blind and assisted Mike Welch with the construction and installation of the blind.
Mike is a retired heavy equipment operator, a Vietnam veteran, a hunter and understands the problems that hunters using a wheelchair face.
Mike Welch and his wife Carol live in Bethany, near Eagle Creek, and they have served as campground hosts at the Illinois Department of Natural Resources site for seven years.
The new blind for hunters with disabilities will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Eagle Creek State Recreation Area is located on the western shore of Lake Shelbyville near Findlay, IL.
2 of the Miller Media Group radio stations in Taylorville will hold its annual telethon to benefit the United Way of Christian County, on Thursday, September 25th.
M-M-G president Randal J. Miller, and United Way executive director Malia Hepburn, will co-host the telethon. Several representatives of United Way supported agencies, will also appear.
This year, the telethon will be heard on Newstalk WTIM THE BIG 870 AM and 96.3 FM from 8:30 til 10 in the morning, then the telethon will move over to WRAN groovy 97.3 and be heard on that station from 10 until noon.
Listeners will be asked to contribute to help the United Way support 25 local agencies continue to help over 10,000 Christian County residents. No calls will be taken on-the-air, but those pledging toward the United Way campaign will be acknowledged.
For more information on the United Way of Christian County campaign, contact Hepburn at 824-8404.
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Tower crews working for the Miller Media Group's 107.5 shine.fm completed installation on Thursday, of new antennas on the station's tower south of Taylorville.
The newly-installed antennas have dramatically improved the signal of the station in Taylorville, with 3 times the power that previously covered the Christian County seat.
The station reaches an area from Decatur, to Taylorville, to Pana, and surrounding areas, with Contemporary Christian Music 24 hours a day programmed from Olivet Nazarene University's radio station WONU in Kankakee, Illinois.
107.5 shine.fm is one of 6 radio stations that operate from the Miller Media Group's studios at 918 East Park in Taylorville.
The Taylorville Police Department has announced that it again is accepting unwanted or expired medications, whether prescription or over the counter, at the department headquarters in the next week, as part of National Drug Take Back Day on September 27th.
Deputy Police Chief Brian Hile tells Regional Radio News, that the local department collects several hundred pounds of unwanted or expired medication. Hile added that at one event they held, some one-thousand pounds of unwanted drugs were collected.
Hile says collecting unwanted drugs keeps those medications off the streets and out of the hands of youth.
Taylorville Police will also collected unwanted drugs on Saturday, September 27th, from 10 til 2, at the Taylorville Walgreens.
THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:
Kellie Barry, 31, of Taylorville was arrested on September 19th for domestic battery.
Elizabeth Frisina, 49, of Taylorville was arrested on September 18th for theft, a Class I felony charge, Bond was posted for $2000.
Shawn Grubaugh, 38, of Taylorville was arrested on September 19th for domestic battery.
Eric Klein35, of Pana was arrested on September 19th for domestic battery.
ACCIDENTS:
On September 17, Heather Moore, 25, of Springfield was traveling eastbound on County Highway #2 approximately one-half mile west of township road 1000 east when a deer entered the roadway. Moore was unable to stop to avoid striking the animal and received front end damage to her 2011 Chevy Cruise
On September 17, Gary Tarrant, 53, of Tower Hill was traveling northbound on Illinois Route 51 approaching the intersecting township road 1200 North. Julio Monge, 79, of Taylorville was traveling eastbound on township road 1200 north and had stopped at the stop sign with the southbound lanes intersection of Illinois Route 51. Monge proceeded across the southbound lanes of Illinois Route 51 and had stopped in the middle “yield” median, intersection with the northbound lanes. Monge stated he did not see Tarrant approaching and began to proceed across the northbound lanes to continue east. Tarrant applied his brakes in an attempt to avoid striking Monge. Monge stuck Tarrant in the east lane of the double, northbound traffic lanes. Monge was driving the South Fork Senior Citizens 2009 Ford E350 and Tarrant was driving a 2003 PT Cruiser. Monge received front end damage and Tarrant received drivers side damage.
THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLWOING ARRESTS:
On September 18, officers went to St. Mary's Hospital in Decatur in reference to a juvenile subject being released that had a valid Christian County warrant. The juvenile was arrested and transported to the Christian County Courthouse.
On September 17, officers were dispatched to Walmart for a retail theft. Upon arrival to the store Alexander B. Shanks, was arrested for retail theft.
On September 18, officers were on patrol when they observed a vehicle being driven by Timothy W. Verbiski. Officers knew Verbiski's license to be suspended/revoked and conducted a traffic stop. During the stop dispatch verified thru L.E. A.D.S. that Verbiski's license was in fact revoked. Verbiski ws placed under attest for driving while license revoked and was transported to the Taylorville Police Department to be processed. Verbiski was later released on a notice to appear in court on the charge of driving while license revoked.
On September 19, at 1:16 am., officers were dispatched to 917 East Oak Street in reference to a battery taking place. Kelly C. Barry, 30, of Taylorville, and Shawn R. Grubagh, 38, of Taylorville was arrested for domestic battery. They were transported to the Taylorville Police Department for processing and later transported to the Christian County Correctional Center in lieu of bond.
THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:
SEPTEMBER 16 1 EMS
SEPTEMBER 17 2 EMS
SEPTEMBER 19 1 EMS, 1 Motor Vehicle Accident
As heard on Newstalk WTIM 96.3, Taylorville defeated Salem by a final score of 48 to 0.
As heard on WMKR Genuine Country 94.3, Clinton defeated Central A&M by a final score of 13 to 9.
As heard on WSVZ NEW Country 98.3, Shelbyville defeated Tuscula by a final score of 52 to 26.
All the games were streamed live on Taylorvilledailynews.com.
Domestic violence is a subject that is currently receiving a lot of national attention, but it's also a story that hits close to home. Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp says domestic violence calls account for a sizable portion of police business:
[audio:sheriffdomviolence091914.mp3]comment here[/audio]
The Sheriff says just his office alone has received over 100 domestic violence calls since the beginning of August.
Buddy Daniels – General Manager of Bob Ridings in Pana has officially retired. Buddy has been General Manager in Pana for eleven and a half years, and was with Bob Ridings for twenty-eight and a half years. Daniels says he's seen a lot of changes in his years in the business:
[audio:danielsretires0911914.mp3]comment here[/audio]
Darren Seaton has been named the new General Manager.
Buddy will not completely be away from the business , as he'll still help customers when they call him to search for a vehicle.
Buddy plans on enjoying retirement with his wife, and has many projects around the house, and horses to tend to everyday.
The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce is looking for volunteers for the upcoming Chillifest. CEO of the chamber, Patty Hornbuckle says the main thing they need is chilli judges:
[audio:pattyvolunteers091914.mp3]comment here[/audio]
Call the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce if you'd like to help out, 824-4919. Chilliest takes place October 4th and 5th.
Computer Techniques, Incorporated, also known as C-T-I in Taylorville, is on schedule with their build-out of what will be Taylorville's first fiber optic network for high speed Internet. President of the company Billy Williams tells Regional Radio News that they just completed phase 2 of their city-wide project.
[audio:Williamscut1Sept1614.mp3]comment here[/audio]
And Williams says they're right on schedule with construction, after the harsh winter slowed their progress.
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Williams says C-T-I has simplified the sign-up process for their high-speed fiber optic Internet service in Taylorville.
[audio:Williamscut3Sept1614.mp3]comment here[/audio]
For more information on C-T-I's build-out of their new fiber optic network in Taylorville, go to C-T-I-fiber-dot-com.
THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ACCIDENTS:
On September 15, Robert Prater, 55, of Herrick was southbound on US. Rt. 51 south of Pana. A southbound vehicle in front of Prater slowed in traffic to make a left turn. Aaron Brookens, 27, of Pana was also southbound on US Rt. 51. Brookens stated he did not see the other units slowing and struck Prater in the rear. No injuries were reported. Brookens received minor damage to his1995 Ford Taurus, and Prater received minor damage to his 1995 Ford Explorer. Both vehicles were towed from the scene.
On September 15, John Clark, 24, of Maryland Heights, Missouri was northbound on Illinois Rt. 48 just south of 1000 East Road. Brandon Rush, 29, of Taylorville was southbound n Illinois Rt. 48 in approximately the same area. Rush lost control of his vehicle due to hydroplaning on the wet roadway. He spun and struck the left front side of Clark. No injuries were reported. Rush was towed from the scene.
THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING:
On September 17, officers were dispatch to 816 S. Wyandotte for a dog at large. Subsequent to investigation, Judy Brown, 69, of Taylorville was given a city ordinance for dog running at large.
Even though it's late in the season, the Taylorville Main Street Farmers Market still anticipates new crops. Market manager Ed Downs says it's still a good time to load up on summer bounty:
[audio:farmersmkt091914.mp3]comment here[/audio]
The Taylorville Main Street Farmers Market takes place every Saturday from 9am till 1:30pm. In addition to produce items, the market offers locally produced baked goods and arts and crafts.
Steve Henry, the owner of CSH Investment Management in Taylorville is a Value Investor. He explains what that means:
[audio:henryvalueinvestor091714.mp3]comment here[/audio]
CSH Investment Management is at 926 S. Spresser in Taylorville. Call 824-
A church in Herrick is beginning a new sermon series this Sunday (9-21). Pastor Jeremy Suey of the Herrick Christ Tabernacle Church says the series will be based on a popular movie:
College students interested in a career in agriculture might be able to get some help paying for college. Melissa McMillan, Manager of the Christian County Farm Bureau, says they are raising money for scholarships:
[audio:mcmillanccfbscholarships091814.mp3]comment here[/audio]
The Christian County Farm Bureau is located at 400 W. Market in Taylorville. Call 824-2940.
A Pana businessman and his wife are involved in a non-profit organization due to the illness of their son.
Tim and Jennifer Christer own and operate the Pana Save-A-Lot and are hosting a fund-raiser at their store, to benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, an organization they became aware of when their son Bo was discovered as having Type I diabetes.
[audio:Christercut1Sept1514.mp3]comment here[/audio]
Christer says that J-D-R-F raises money for diabetes research as well as provide help to families whose children have the disease.
[audio:Christercut2Sept1514.mp3]comment here[/audio]
And, Christer says son Bo is doing well with his diabetes.
[audio:Christercut3Sept1514.mp3]comment here[/audio]
For more information on the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, go on-line to J-D-R-F-dot-org.
2 of the Miller Media Group radio stations based in Taylorville, have scheduled a service outage for Thursday, for antenna repairs.
NEW Country 104-point-ONE and 107-point-5 shine-dot-fm, will both be off the air for a good portion of the day on Thursday, as tower crews install new antennas for both signals to improve coverage.
The work was originally scheduled for September 9th, but was called off due to bad weather.
Both stations should be back on the air by late afternoon. The work is weather permitting.
THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:
Tilur Miller, 20, of Taylorville was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for consumption of liquor by a minor.
Joshua Wells, 24, of Taylorville was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for possession of a controlled substance.
THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:
On September 16, a Taylorville Police officer was on patrol when he observed Tilur Miller, 20, of Taylorville walking on Park Street. He knew Miller to have a valid Christian County failure to appear warrant. He made contact with Miller and had dispatch confirm the warrant through LEADS. Miller was placed under arrest and transported to the Christian County Correctional Center.
Long-time Taylorville Memorial Hospital C-E-O Dan Raab has announced his retirement effective at the end of the year.
Raab told Regional Radio's Randy Miller, that he began informing his staff and medical board that he was ending his health care career on December 31st.
[audio:Raabcut1Sept1714.mp3]comment here[/audio]
Raab began his career in health care while in high school.
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Raab will continue to reside in Taylorville after his retirement.
Breast cancer is treatable if caught early, and one local hospital is offering a new program to address the problem. Cindy Miles, Diagnostic Imaging Manager for Pana Community Hospital explains:
[audio:milespchbreastcare091714.mp3]comment here[/audio]
Miles says there is help available for those unable to afford a mammogram. Call the Diagnostic Imaging Department at Pana Community Hospital at 562-6366.
Once again, the Christian County Board meeting Tuesday night was occupied by the Medical Cannabis Cultivation Facility issue. 2 of the entities that had previously pitched their case for board support were on hand to restate their plans and desires. Clayton Bloome of JCLM, LLC led the way and once again pounded home the fact that they were local farmers who grew up in the community and had a strong desire to see the facility in the hands of local people. Mark Strawn of Abide Palliatives LLC pitched the extreme security measures they will take with the facility and the economic pluses of adding 10 to 18 jobs. A new hat was thrown into the ring by Joe Zander of Harvest Med, LLC. Mr. Zander introduced his team that included Matthew Williams, construction and design, Patrick Keen, security and law enforcement, Jason Boesdorfer, drug investigation and law enforcement. Not present was Dr. John Zander with over 40 years medical and research background. The proposed site for the Harvest Med facility is at 1400 East Road, north of ADM. Joe Zander stressed his 5 years as a licensed medical grower in California as a key element in the presentation. Top notch security, including a retired state police colonel acting as head of security, I-pass on all employee vehicles, pass keys on all doors except restrooms and cameras in all areas, excluding rest rooms were some of the other items stressed. The creation of 30 to 40 new jobs with a minimum wage of $12 per hour was a positive claim made by the team.
After some discussion, including comments by the Sheriff and others, County Board Chairman Paul Schmitz made a motion to give all three proposers a letter of support. A roll call vote was taken ant the motion passed with 12 yes, 3 no and 1 present.
In other business, the board heard a report from the Executive, Personnel, Liquor Committee concerning the appeal by retired County Board member and County Treasurer Mike Drea. On August 24, 2014 the Illinois Retirement Fund Board of Trustees upheld, unanimously, the Administrative Staff determination and deny the request to have Mr. Drea's pension recalculated. Mr. Drea can pusue further action by filing for andministrative review in the Circuit Court of Christian, DuPage or Sangamon County within 35 days of the letter's date. The members of the board were advised by counsel to make no comment until the 35 days had passed. The members of the Board also approved a request by Joelynda Conrad, Animal Control Warden, asking for financial assistance in the micro-chipping of dogs. It was pointed out that it is mandatory when someone adopts a dog that it be micro chipped and the present fee is $40. The Board agreed to reimburse $20 of the fee via a vet voucher. The fee is to be paid from the Willey/Givens Trust, the same trust used to help pay for the spay and neutering of dogs and cats.
The meeting was adjourned at approximately 7:25.
Fracking is being touted as a big economic plus for Illinois, but not everyone is on board. Democratic State Senator Andy Manar tells Regional Radio News we have to balance the economic benefits of fracking with environmental concerns:
[audio:manarfracking091714.mp3]comment here[/audio]
Governor Pat Quinn has expressed support for fracking, but many environmentalists claim it's benefits are outweighed by the risks.
The Christian County Democrats officially opened their Campaign Headquarters for the 2014 Elections. The headquarters is located at 212 W. Market in Taylorville. Persons wishing to see what is happening in the Party can go online at www.christiancountydemocrats.org. Participating in the ribbon cutting L to R are: In the very front: Lane Crain, and Scott Crain. Then Bev Graham, Linda Curtin, Dick Adams, Dick Breckenridge, Amy Winans, Laurie Mense, Marilyn Voggetzer, Bree Hager, Jack Mazzotti, Mike Havera, Ann Callis (Candidate for Congress), Paul Schmitz (Christian County Board Chairman), Kenny Shivers, Greg Hager, Joe Marley, Bruce Barry, and Mike Gianasi.
Taylorville Police are investigating a possible arson case that took place Saturday(9-13). An officer was reportedly called out just before 11:00am to 708 West Vandeveer on reports of a suspicious person. The officer apparently saw smoke coming from the garage of the residence and summoned the Fire Department. They extinguished the fire.
According to the reports, the homeowner identified a woman who may have been responsible. She was located and interviewed.
There may have been an arrest in the case. The Christian County Sheriff's Office reports processing the arrest of a 33 year-old Taylorville woman Saturday on arson charges, but it's unclear if that is connected to this case.
Police say the matter remains under investigation.
Area police agencies are again warning motorists to be especially watchful for deer. They can be more active in the Fall.
The Christian County Sheriff's Office has processed several DUI arrests in the last few days.
The school year is well started, according to the superintendent of Taylorville Schools. Dr. Greg Fursteneau tells Regional Radio News the new Conference for the sports teams is working out well so far:
[audio:fursteneauextracurricular091714.mp3]comment here[/audio]
Taylorville is now part of the Apollo Conference.
An alert off-duty cop helped nab a couple of suspected pot offenders.
According to police, early in the evening September 9th, the officer noticed apparent marijuana smoking in a vehicle in the Wendy's Restaurant parking lot and called it in. After a quick investigation, authorities arrested 47 year-old Tina Simmons and 18 year-old Wyatt Martin, both of Sparling Illinois, on charges of possession of both cannabis and drug paraphenalia.
The American Diabetes Association is planning a couple of fundraisers in coming weeks. Vanessa Wiseman of the ADA says the money raised is put to good use:
THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:
On September 14, 2014 approximately 8:45 am a vehicle was stopped for an IVC violation. Upon further investigation, Amanda Mosley, 26, of Taylorville was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia and released on notice to appear from Taylorville Police Department.
ACCIDENT:
On September 9, 2014 Melody Wagner, 38, of Taylorville was traveling westbound on Park Street near the intersection of Park and Main Streets. Taylor Neeley, 16, of Taylorville was attempting to turn east onto Park Street. Neeley stopped, proceeded into the intersection, was was struck by Wagner, causing damage. Both vehicles were unable to be driven from the scene.
On September 14, 2014 at 10:42 am officers were sent to a two vehicle accident at Adams and Powers. Officers approved and observed a small SUV and motorcycle involved. Amanda Umberger, 27, of Taylorville stated she stopped at the stop sign and proceeded and did not see Patrick Cooper, 54, of Taylorville and Cooper struck her. Umberger stated that after Cooper struck her vehicle, he was on her hood and fell off when she came to a stop. Cooper stated he though Umberger ran the stop sign and he could not get stopped in time and struck Umberger. Cooper had minor injuries and was transported to Taylorville Memorial Hospital for treatment. A witness stated that Umberger stopped at the stop sign and proceeded into the intersection ans was struck by Cooper. No injuries were reported to Umberger or her passenger. Both vehicles were towed. Umberger was issued a citation for failing to yield stop/yield intersection and Cooper was issued citation for violation of classification(motorcycle) and no nsurance.
THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:
9/12/14 1 Automatic Alarm
9/13/14 2 EMS, 2 Fires, 1 Rescue
9/`4/14 3 EMS, 1 Motor Vehicle Accident, 1 Automatic Alarm
9/15/14 2 EMS, 1 Public Assist
The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard about the upcoming Taylorville Chamber Chillifest, which this year is being combined with the City of Taylorville and Christian County's 175th Anniversary celebration, at the club's weekly luncheon meeting Tuesday at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.
Kiwanis member Patty Hornbuckle, the C-E-O of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce, told the club about the 3 days full of festivities October 3rd, 4th, and 5th.
Much of the 175th Anniversary celebration takes place that weekend at the Christian County Historical Society grounds, while the annual Chillifest celebration will again take place on the Taylorville square. Much of the weekend on the square will also include events celebrating the city and county's anniversary, including the parade Saturday morning that Hornbuckle says will be a big one.
[audio:HornbuckleaudioSept1614.mp3]comment here[/audio]
Many of the Chillifest mainstay events continue, such as the Little Miss, Little Mister, and Junior Miss pageant Saturday morning; entertainment on the south stage and a new north stage both days; and 2 days of International Chilli Society judging.
For the full schedule of events, go to chillifest-dot-info; that's Chillifest with 2-L's.
The Taylorville Kiwanis Club is part of global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time. Weekly meetings are held Tuesdays at noon at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium. For information on the club, go to taylorvillekiwanis.com.
There seems to be an issue of residency for Ann Callis, a former Madison County judge who's trying to unseat U.S. Rep Rodney Davis in the 13th Congressional District. According to Lee Enterprises, Callis lived in Kirkwood, Missouri while serving as a judge in Madison County, Illinois. Her campaign reps say she also owns a home in Troy, Illinois but is renting a spot in Edwardsville while running for office. Congressional candidates are not required to live in their district.
The local United Way Chapter is kicking off its 2014 fund drive this Thursday (9-18). Executive Director Malia Hepburn tells Regional Radio they have an ambitious goal this year:
[audio:hepburnunitedway091514.mp3]comment here[/audio]
There are several ways to donate to the Christian County United way, including automatic payroll deduction. The United Way is located on the south side of the Taylorville Square at 108 W. Market.
Illinois lawmakers are pushing a bill that would require police to wear body cameras. State Senator Andy Manar tells Regional Radio that, in the wake of recent events in Ferguson Missouri, it's an idea worth considering:
[audio:manarvideocops091514.mp3]comment here[/audio]
Senator Manar represents Illinois' 48th Senate District. He faces Macon County Board member Linda Little in the upcoming November elections.
Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center in Mattoon will be the location for an October event. Karen Cole, Service Representative for the hospital says the event is called the New Face of Heart Disease:
[audio:colesbloctoberevent091614.mp3]comment here[/audio]
They request that you RSVP for the event, which includes a light dinner. Call (217)
258-2420.
The Shadow Home in Taylorville has reopened after closing up for while for a series of renovations. Kim Rollins of the Shadow Home says they have several needs now that they are back:
[audio:shadowhomeneeds091514.mp3]comment here[/audio]
The Shadow Home is a faith based home for needy women and their children which provides lodging, meals, clothing and counseling. It's intended for women seeking refuge from unsafe living conditions, unwed mothers with no means of support and women who are emancipated minors who need shelter. Find out more at shadowhome.org.
A local business is planning an expansion. John Mollett, owner of Zone Nutrition in Taylorville says he will soon be providing protein and nutrient laden smoothies:
[audio:zonenutritionsmoothies091614.mp3]comment here[/audio]
Zone Nutrition, which offers vitamins, nutritional supplements and more, is located at 207 W. Main Cross, just off the Taylorville Square.
THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:
Troy Donaldson, 24, of Mt. Auburn,was arrested on September 12th, for driving on a suspended/revoked license.
Katrina Ralston, 26, of Nokomis, was arrested on September 12th on a bond forfeiture warrant for Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol.
Shane Drum, 33, of Pana, was arrested on September 12th on a bond forfeiture warrant for theft.
Crystal Durham, of Pana, was arrested on September 13th for battery.
Amanda Carnahan, 33, of Taylorville was arrested on September 13th for arson.
Dustin Johnson, 26, of Taylorville was arrested on September 13th for Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol.
Ashley Riggs, 30, of Taylorville was arrested on September 14ht for domestic battery.
Randy Allen, 31, of Stonington, was arrested on September 14th for Driving Under the Influence of alcohol and for drugs.
Kevin Green, 34, of Pana, was arrested on September 14th for aggrevated battery to police and on a bond forfeiture warrant for faliure to appear/answer question.
ACCIDENTS:
On September 8, Brandi Hurley, 19, of Taylorville was traveling south bound on 1400 East Road and swerved to miss a deer at approximately 1460 North Road. Hurley struck the ditch with her 2003 Ford Focus. Her vehicle was towed from the scene.
INCIDENT:
On September14, Roy Wilbur called the Sheriff's Office in reference to a theft. Wilburn advised that his grain bin site on 500 North Road, just west of 1800 East Road in Rosamond Township. Wilbur said he wet to the bin site and noticed subject(s) had removed the power cords from the fans and motors. Mr. Wilhour said he has been to the sited to mow the grass, but did not notice the wires missing until today.
THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING:
On September 9th at 6:04 pm officers received information from an off duty officer in reference to a subject smoking cannabis in a vehicle in the Wendy's parking lot. Subsequent to investigation, Wyatt Martin, 18, of Sparland, Illinois and Tina Simmons, 47, of Sparland, Illinois were arrested for possession of cannabis and possession of drug paraphernalia.
On September 13th, a Taylorville police officer stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation in the area of West Spresser and West Street. The driver of the vehicle, Haley Robinson, 21, of Taylorville name was ran through the Taylorville Police Department L.E.A.D.S. and showed her driving privileges were suspended. She was arrested and transported to the Taylorville Police Department, processed and released.
On September 13th, at approximately 10:48 am, a Taylorville Police Officer responded to 708 West Vandeveer Street regarding a suspicious person. Upon arrival, the officer noticed smoke coming from the garage located in the rear residence. The fire department was notified, responded and extinguished the fire. The home owner suspected that a female had been at the residence and set the fire. The female was located and an officer spoke to her. The matter is under investigation.
On September 14th, at 3:01 am, officers were dispatched to 718 West Vandeveer in reference to a domestic battery. Ashley Rockford, 30, of Talorville. Was arrested for domestic battery and transported to the Christian County Correctional Center in lieu of bond.
The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest Committee met Monday night in the Chamber board room on the 2nd floor of U-S Bank, to further finalize plans for the annual festival on the Taylorville square October 4th and 5th.
This year, Chillifest is being joined by the 175th celebration of Taylorville and Christian County, with events both on the square and also at the Christian County Historical Society grounds.
Among the major events this year at Chillifest include the 5K Run; Little Miss, Mister, and Junior Miss Pageants; 2 stages of entertainment this year; and 2 days of International Chilli Society judging.
What's being called the “C-175th” includes events Friday and Saturday at the Christian County Historical Society, including an encampment by the 10th Illinois Volunteer Unit regiment; a re-enactment of the “Lincoln Almanac Trial”; and a Saturday full of antique tractors, cars, arts, crafts and food on October 4th.
At Monday night's Chillifest committee meeting, it was announced that there are 15 Little Miss contestants, 4 Little Mister contestants, and 9 Junior Miss contestants all participating in Saturday morning's annual pageant.
For complete information on both events, go to chillifest-dot-info, and that's Chillifest with 2-L's.
Monday night's Taylorville City Council meeting lasted an hour and 10 minutes, with a couple of contentious issues discussed by council members.
One of them concerned a recommendation by the Taylorville Zoning and Planning Commission asking the Council to OK a request from Harold Johnson, that property at 1700 East Main Cross be re-zoned from Residential-One, to Commercial-2. During the Zoning Commission's public hearing which was held before the City Council meeting, a couple of neighbors in the neighborhood appeared and asked that the Zoning Commission deny the change in zoning. The Commission voted unanimously in favor of recommending to the City Council, the change in zoning, but when it came time for the Council vote, it failed 5 to 3. Some Council members didn't want the zoning changed, while others indicated that if Johnson would clean up the property and re-apply for the zoning change, they would vote for it. With the motion being defeated, Johnson will now have to go back to the Zoning Commission and begin the process again.
Taylorville aldermen Monday night OK'd a number of resolutions and motions. Resolutions were approved supporting an intergovernmental law enforcement officers training act, they entered into an agreement with the Christian County Major Crimes Task Force, they allowed the Village of Stonington to borrow certain city equipment, and approved an amendment to an agreement with engineering firm Benton and Associates on the city's new water treatment plant. The Council approved an ordinance changing language on some stop sign locations, and OK'd spending 32-hundred dollars to abate asbestos in the city hall boiler room.
Taylorville City Council members Monday night spent the most time in their just over one hour meeting, trying to pass an amended ordinance to try and provide some compensation to 9 property owners whose sewer tap had shifted due to no fault of theirs, causing them major repair bills. As a result of numerous committee meetings and some 15 hours of discussion at those meetings, the proposal brought to the Council Monday night would allow up to 50-percent re-imbursement of costs, up to a cap of 17-hundred 50-dollars, if city officials deem that the repairs to the city's sewer tap were due to no fault of the property owner. Alderman Ernie Dorchinez disagreed with the proposal, saying city crews should fix broken sewer taps at no cost to the property owner.
[audio:DorchinezaudioSept1514.mp3]comment here[/audio]
Mayor Greg Brotherton told the Council that due to tax caps, the money isn't there to to pay for the sewer repairs that Dorchinez suggested.
[audio:BrothertonaudioSept1514.mp3]comment here[/audio]
The Mayor added that the proposal brought to Monday night's Taylorville City Council meeting, was a compromise between the 9 affected property owners and the city, after over 15 hours of meetings.
After a 30-minute discussion that involved all aldermen and the mayor, the Council voted 6 to one to pass the amended ordinance re-imbursing property owners 50-percent up to 17-hundred 50-dollars, for repairing damaged sewer taps if it wasn't caused by the owner.
A number of motions coming out of various committees, were approved by the Taylorville City Council Monday night. Aldermen allowed the purchase of 15 computers for the police department costing some 49-thousand dollars; they OK'd trading in 2 Chrysler Sebring vehicles the city owns, for 2 new or program vehicles locally at a cost not to exceed 20-thousand dollars each; they voted to re-join the Central Illinois Enforcement Group Drug Task Force if staffing is available; and changed the insurance coverage on the fire department's new platform truck, to cover replacement cost.
Council members OK'd a request by Ben Morrison, to volunteer at his expense to install a light on Tommy Tornado on the City's water tower near Taylorville High School during home games; they accepted the Lake Emergency Action Plan; they approved a crop lease with Brian Moses; they directed city attorney Rocci Romano to amend city code pertaining to swimming at Lake Taylorville; and awarded the highest bid of 231-dollars an acre for farming 4 parcels near Lake Taylorville, to Ed Miller. Aldermen also allowed repairs to a maintenance loader costing no more than 2-thousand dollars, and purchased parts for a Kawasaki Mule costing some 475-dollars.
The Taylorville City Council meets in regular session Monday night at 7 at the Council Chambers inside City Hall.
Among major items on the council's agenda includes resolutions allowing police officers to participate in in-service training, an intergovernmental agreement with the Christian County Major Crimes Task Force as well as with the Village of Stonington to borrow equipment.
Aldermen will also consider an amendment with the engineering firm working on the proposed new water treatment plant; they'll consider re-zoning property at 1700 East Main Cross based on a recommendation from the Planning Commission; and amend city code for stop signs and also what liability property owners have for sewer repairs.
Several motions coming out of various committees, will also be brought up for action at Monday night's Taylorville City Council meeting.
That meeting begins Monday evening at 7 at City Hall. We'll have a full report for you in our newscasts Tuesday, and on-line at taylorvilledailynews-dot-com.
As heard on WMKR Genuine Country 94.3 FM Saturday, In Eastern Illinois University Panther Football Illinois State beat EIU by a final score of 34 to 15.
As heard on Newstalk WTIM THE BIG 870 AM and 96.3 FM Saturday, in Fighting Illini football, Washington beat Illinois by a final score of 44 to 19.
The National Child Passenger Safety Week begins this Sunday and runs thru Saturday, September 20th. This year the Illinois Department of Transportation, AAA, the Illinois Secretary of State, and the Illinois Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics are sponsoring 78 car seat checks in Illinois, including one in Taylorville.
The focus of the Illinois campaign this year is to talk with and educate parents about extended rear-facing for children. Children who ride rear-facing are 5 times safer than those riding forward-facing.
The Taylorville Police Department has teamed up with CVS Pharmacy in hosting this year's campaign including the Seat Check Saturday, September 20th from 10am to 2pm in the CVS parking lot.
Taylorville Police have 3 certified technicians which will be on hand to inspect car seats or properly install a car seat. Some hospitals even require a car seat to be installed by a certified technician. The technicians will have information available and will be able to answer questions.
In addition to the safety seat check, TRIAD will be on hand handing out information on the Yellow Dot program sponsored by the Illinois Department of Transportation.
This past week has been Chamber Week, to honor the work of Chambers of Commerce. At a recent live broadcast from the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce, CEO Patty Hornbuckle said they offer a number of services:
[audio:pattychamberweek091214.mp3]comment here[/audio]
Member Shelly Grigoroff of Watson Foods says they are planning a chamber event:
[audio:chambergrigoroff091214.mp3]comment here[/audio]
The chamber is also busy planning Chillifest, which this year will also celebrate the 175th anniversary of Taylorville and Christian County.
U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis of Taylorville has co-sponsored H.R. 3465, the Second Chance Reauthorization Act of 2013, bipartisan legislation to provide resources to state and local governments as well as community-based organizations to improve success rates for people released from prison and jail.
The Second Chance Act was passed by Congress with strong bipartisan support and signed into law by President George W. Bush in 2008.
The legislation is supported by national organizations like the NAACP, Prison Fellowship Ministries, the National Association of Police Organizations, and the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, and Illinois-based organizations like the Macon County Court Services, Illinois Association of Rehabilitation Facilities, and TASC Illinois.
The Pana City Council has scheduled a Committee Meeting of the Whole for Monday night (9-15). The Council will hear reports from several committees.
As heard on Newstalk WTIM 96.3, Taylorville defeated Rantoul by a final score of 62 to 14.
As heard on WMKR Genuine Country 94.3, Central A&M loss to St. Teresa by a final score of 47 to 12.
As heard on WSVZ NEW Country 98.3, Shelbyville defeated Clinton by a final score of 50 to 19.
All the games were streamed at taylorvilledailynews.com.
The Christian County Sheriff's Office is reporting 2 more deer car collisions.
Sunday, 45 year-old Robert Keel of Springfield was driving west on 2800 North Road near 1167 East Road when a deer ran out in front of him. He couldn't avoid hitting the animal.
25 year-old Matthew Tarrant of Bulpitt was reportedly headed north on County Highway 5 a few miles south of Route 104 when a deer ran out into the road. Tarrant reportedly swerved to avoid the animal and lost control, going into a ditch and striking a utility pole. According to reports, Tarrant was cited for having an expired registration and driving without insurance.
One sure sign of Autumn is the appearance of pumpkins. Ed Downs, Market Manager for the Taylorville Main Street Farmers Market, says the “pumpkin wagon” will make its 2014 debut Saturday:
[audio:farmersmkt091214.mp3]comment here[/audio]
The Farmers Market takes place every Saturday from 9am till 1:30pm on the Taylorville Square.
An accident Tuesday (9-9) caused no injuries but left a utility pole leaning. According to reports, 49 year-old Don Pembroke of Taylorville told police he was driving on East Main Cross when a car pulled out of Hillcrest Trailer Court, causing him to swerve into the utility pole. The other driver reportedly gave the same story, and was cited for failure to yield.
The pole was reportedly leaning, but not broken. Ameren was contacted about the damaged property.
You may not know it, but fall is an important time of year for your lawn. Horticulturist Andrew Holsinger of the University of Illinois Extension says time is running short for you to reseed your lawn:
[audio:holsingerseedlawn091214.mp3]comment here[/audio]
If you have lawn or garden questions, you can get answers every Monday from 9am till 11:30am and 1 to 2pm by calling the University of Illinois Extension Help Desk at 287-7246.
1st Responders have until Friday to cash in on a free McDonald's McCafe Smoothie. According to Brad Davis, whose family owns and operates McDonald's Restaurants in Taylorville, Pana, Shelbyville, and Vandalia, they are offering the smoothies this week in honor of the September Eleventh National Day of Service and Remembrance.
Those eligible for the freebie include police, firefighters, EMS and public safety officers. All they have to do is show a current state-issued ID card.
The Smoothies have been available all week. Davis says it's the second consecutive year for the local McDonald's to honor the first responders.
This year's Chillifest and 175th Anniversary Celebration will feature the burying of a time capsule. CEO of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce says they are looking to the public for items to put in the capsule:
A couple of abandoned dogs are looking to be adopted. Ian Wilson, owner of Tail Command in Taylorville says a friend called him about the pooches:
[audio:tailcommanddogadopt091214.mp3]comment here[/audio]
Contact Tail Command if you're interested in adopting one or both of the dogs. Tail Command, at 306 S. Spresser in Taylorville offers grooming, boarding, training and more. Call 824-TAIL, that's 824-8245, or check them out online.
THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ACCIDENTS:
Matthew Tarrant, 25 of Bulpitt was north bound on county highway five half mile south of Illinois Route 104. A deer ran into the path of Tarrant. She swerved to avoid the deer and lost control of the vehicle. The vehicle went off the left side of the road and into a ditch and struck a utility pole. No injuries were reported. The 2000 Lincoln LS that Tarrant was driving was driving was pulled out by another truck. Tarrant was issued citations for expired registration and operation of an uninsured vehicle.
On September 7th, Robert Keel, 45, of Springfield was traveling west bound on 2800 North and was unable to avoid striking a deer in the roadway at 1167 East Road.
Carol Marsters of Mesa Arizona, was traveling east in the 600 block of Springfied Road. It was raining very hard and visibility was comprised. Marsters made a left turn and thought she was turning into Market parking lot, but missed the drive due to heavy rain and no visibility. Marsters received front end damage to the 2014 Chevrolet Sonic rental car.
THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ACCIDENTS:
On September 9th at approximately 3:55 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 1000 block of East Main Cross for an accident with no personal injuries. Upon arrival we saw that Don Pembroke, 49, of Taylorville had struck a utility pole. Pembroke said that the non-collision vehicle pulled out in front of him when it was leaving Hillcrest Trailer Court. He swerved to avoid the vehicle, but struck the utility pole. The non-collision vehicle said the same thing and was cited for failing to yield to an existing private road/drive. The utility pole was leaning, but not broken and dispatch contacted Ameren.
Mark Sazabo, 50, of Taylorville backed out of a parking space at 106 West Park and struck Robert Patterson, 36 of Taylorville and left the scene.
NO COURTHOUSE REPROTS TODAY
At this week's Taylorville School Board Meeting, Superintendent Dr. Greg Fursteneau discussed the enrollment figures with board members. Dr. Fursteneau says enrollments are down this year, continuing a trend that goes back many decades:
[audio:fursteneauenrollment091114.mp3]comment here[/audio]
Total enrollment in Taylorville in 1971 was nearly 3600. That number has dropped to just under 2500 this year. Dr. Fursteneau says it's not just the Taylorville district or rural districts seeing this trend. He says it's happening in larger urban districts too.
Eight employees of the CNB Bank and Trust took the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge yesterday afternoon. Marketing President, Kent Richardson, explains how the bank got involved in the challenge.
[audio:cnbbankicechallenge0911141.mp3]comment here[/audio]
Richardson went on to urge others to take the challenge and all for a good cause.
[audio:cnbbankice2091114.mp3]comment here[/audio]
A 21 year-old Taylorville man is charged with several crimes. Alexander Shanks was arrested Monday morning (9-9), accused of possession of a firearm without a valid FOID card.
Shanks had previously been arrested Monday by Taylorville police, as he was reportedly also wanted on a failure to appear warrant out of Effingham County.
A Central Illinois hospital has introduced the “Patient Portal”. Christin Bliss, Director of Medical Records for Sarah Bush Lincoln Healthcare in Mattoon says the patient portal provides a number of services:
[audio:blisssbl091014.mp3]comment here[/audio]
Find out more at the hospital website sarahbushlincoln.org.
You may not know that most crops can be grown without soil. It's called hydroponics, and according to Master Gardener Gwen Podeschi, it will be the topic of an upcoming Telenet:
[audio:podeschitelenet091014.mp3]comment here[/audio]
The Telenets will take place October 7th and October 9th at the University of Illinois Extension Offices.
The YMCA is planning its annual auction. According to YMCA Director Chris Weitenhiller, it's more than just a sale:
[audio:ymcaauction091014.mp3]comment here[/audio]
The money raised goes largely to support the YMCA's charitable memberships. No one is turned away from the y's programs for lack of money. The Christian County YMCA is at 900 McAdam Drive in Taylorville.
Good paying jobs are hard to come by these days, but one local distributor is looking for employees. Lou Johnson, Distribution Center Manager for MBM in Taylorville says they are in need of truck drivers, among other things. Johnson says many people don't even know MBM is there:
[audio:johnsonmbm090914.mp3]comment here[/audio]
MBM, which has been in Taylorville for 25 years, is currently hiring truck drivers and warehouse workers. You can apply online at mbmcareers.com, or pick up an application at 600 S. Spresser. If you have questions call 287-7733.
Although we usually hear about vehicles striking deer in the roadway, an accident late last month involved an even larger animal.
According to reports, a Christian County Sheriff's Deputy was patrolling in the area of Route 48 near 300 North road on August 29th. The officer reportedly saw a semi tractor trailer parked on the southbound shoulder with what appeared to be front end damage. The driver, 59 year old Melvin Brocksiek of Lafayette Indiana apparently told the deputy he had struck a cow that had wandered onto the highway.
THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:
Mary Tucker, 30, of Taylorville was arrested on September 8th for contempt of court.
Emmanuel Beetem, 20, of Taylorville was arrested on September 8th for theft.
Alexander Shanks, 21, of Taylorville was arrested on September 9th for possession of a firearm/invalid foid.
THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORT THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:
On September 8th, officers located Alexander B. Shanks, 21, of Taylorville at 1301 West Adams. Shanks had a valid warrant out of Effingham County for failure to appear. He was placed under arrest and transported to the Christian County Sheriff's Office in lieu of bond.
THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:
9-8-14 2 EMS, 1 Public Assist, 1 Fire
9-9-14 1 Public Assist
The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard from a former Vietnam prisoner of war, at their weekly luncheon on Tuesday at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.
Dick Zeigler of Springfield enlisted in the Army on September 2nd, 1967, and his helicopter was shot down by the Viet Cong in South Vietnam on February 8th, 1968. He spent 5 years as a prisoner of war.
Zeigler hid in the jungles immediately after his helicopter was shot down, but eventually the Viet Cong found him.
[audio:ZeigleraudioSept914.mp3]comment here[/audio]
Zeigler recounted his numerous prisoner of war camps he was shipped to in his 5 years of captivity, along with his treatment during that time.
Zeigler was one of many who ended up in the “Hanoi Hilton” where all American POW's were housed, and where they were ultimately released when the war ended on March 5th, 1973.
Zeigler's wife died while he was in captivity; he also learned when he got out, that he had a 5-year-old son.
Zeigler re-married and stayed in the military until retiring in 1987.
The Taylorville Kiwanis Club is part of global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time. Weekly meetings are held Tuesdays at noon at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium. For information on the club, go to taylorvillekiwanis.com.
You've seen it in the news: many college students owe tens of thousands of dollars by the time they graduate. Under those circumstances, every bit of help is appreciated, and the Taylorville Community Credit Union is planning to award some scholarships. The President of TCCU Will Perkins, says they want to help students:
[audio:perkinstccuscholarship090914.mp3]comment here[/audio]
TCCU is at 422 W. Maincross in Taylorville, and also has locations in Hillsboro and Litchfield.
If you own a smartphone, chances are it does a lot more than you know. Patty Hornbuckle, the CEO of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce says the smartphone will be the topic for this month's “Lunch and Learn”:
[audio:pattylanslseptember090914.mp3]comment here[/audio]
Again the program is free, and seating is limited. You do need to RSVP for Lunch and Learn. Call the chamber at 824-4919.
It was reported to the Taylorville Community School Distric Board of Education that the Tornado Baseball team had received the IHSA Academic Achievement Award. The boys team achieved a 3.38 total cumulative team grade point average during the 2013-2014 season. The IHSA will post the schools that qualified for the award on the IHSA website as well as being listed in the 2014-2015 State Final Boys Baseball program.
Dr. Greg Feurstenau gave a review of the 2014-2015 District enrollment. The District as a whole saw the numbers decrease from last year at all levels. Grades K-4 was down 26 students with the total being 874. The junior high saw the numbers drop by 34 and the high school was down 12, with total numbers of 772 and 811 respectively. The total school enrollment for 14-15 stands at 2454. Dr. Fuerstenau then informed the board that he had the opportunity to look back to 1971 and compare the enrollment numbers from that period to this years numbers. In 1971, the elementary was grades K-6 and saw an enrollment of 1847, the junior high was grades 7-9 with 865 students and high school, grades 10-12 housed 762 students for a total of 3575. It was noted by Feurstenau that Mt Auburn and Stonington schools were not a part of the 1971 numbers and yet the enrollment was 1121 students stronger than today's numbers, which reflects the changes in the demographics of the county as a whole.
In other business the board approved a request by the FFA to attend the National FFA Convention to be held in Louisville, Kentucky. The convention begins on Wednesday, October 29 and continues through Saturday, November 1. The board also approved the 2014-2015 Annual Report and Application for Recognition of Schools and the District Administration Evaluators. A report was heard on the Taylorville Elementary Breakfast program. It was noted that the number of students participating in the breakfast program had grown from about 33% last year to around 65% this year. The numbers had increased in all areas of the program including the free, reduced and paid. Several administrators echoed the sentiment that the overall benefits of the program made the small problems experienced with the early implementation inconsequential. It was also noted that $8500 in grants had been used to fund the program and that no district dollars were needed for this project.
The meeting was adjourned at approximately 8:15. The meeting was proceeded by a reception for the new teachers in the district.
South Fork High School in Kincaid is hosting a blood drive on Monday, September 15. The hours are 10:00am to 4:00pm. You can call the blood center (toll-free) to sign up at 1-866-GIVE-BLD or schedule an appointment online at www.bloodcenterimpact.org using sponsor code 60026. Walk-ins are also welcome and appreciated.
Central Illinois Community Blood Center, a not-for-profit organization, is the provider of blood for 15 hospitals throughout central Illinois, including Taylorville Memorial Hospital, Pana Community Hospital, and Springfield’s Memorial Medical Center and St. John’s Hospital. The Central Illinois Community Blood Center collects over 180,000 units of blood annually and serve a total of 88 hospitals in Illinois, Iowa, Missouri and Wisconsin.
South Fork High School is at 610 Dial Street in Kincaid.
An Illinois State Senator has received an award. Chapin Rose was given the “Friend of Agriculture Award”by the Dewitt County Farm Bureau. The Senator says he's pleased to get the recognition:
THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:
Kari Muma, 38, of Decatur was arrested on September 7th for contempt of court.
Daniel Fixal, 48, of Morrisonville was arrested on September 7yh for domestic battery.
Leonard Aldridge, 33, of Watseka, Illinois was arrested on September 5th on a bond forfeiture warrant for contempt of court.
Joshua Hill, 31, of Kincaid was arrested on September 5th on a bond forfeiture warrant for contempt of court.
William Lawrence, 40, of Pana was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for possession of drug paraphernalia.
Nicholas Steele, 27, of Assu,ption was arrested on September 5th on a bond forfeiture warrant for theft of Labor or Services.
Devun Rohdemann, 22, of Taylorville was arrested on September 5th for theft.
Michael Alberts, 30, of Taylorville was arrested on September 7th for violation of a cival/no contact order.
ACCIDENTS:
On August 29, a Christian County deputy was patrolling the area of Illinois Route 48 at 300 North Road. The deputy observed a semi tractor and trailer parked on the southwest bound shoulder on the north side with front end damage. The deputy stopped and spoke with the driver Melvin Brocksieck, 59, of Lafayette, Indiana who stated a cow had entered the roadway causing him to strike the cow.
THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:
On September 6, the Taylorville Police Department received a complaint from an off duty officer in reference to erratic driving. An officer located the vehicle and during the investigation the driver, Nathan Mount, 19, of Shelbyville was found to have a revoked drivers license. He was arrested, and transported to the Taylorville Police Department.
ACCIDENTS:
Joyce Morrissey, 46, of Stonington, was traveling west bound on Spresser Street. Christina Crain, 46, of Nokomis, was traveling north bound on Cheney Street. Morrissey did not stop at the stop light and was struck by Crain. Crain said she had the green light and was proceeding through the intersection when she struck Morrissey in the front end. Two winnesses stated Morrissey had ran a red light and was struck by Crain.
THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:
9-5-14 2 EMS, 1 PUBLIC ASSIST
9-6-14 1 AUTOMATIC ALARM
9-7-14 1 EMS
2 Miller Media Group radio stations have scheduled a service outage for part of the day Tuesday due to work on their transmitting antennas.
NEW Country 104-point-ONE and 107-point-5 shine-dot-fm are both getting new antennas on the Miller Media Group tower south of Taylorville.
As a result, both stations will be off the air part of the day. It is expected that both will be back on the air by late afternoon.
The other 4 stations that operate from the Taylorville studios, are not affected by this planned service outage for NEW Country 104-point-ONE and 107-point-5 shine-dot-fm.
Local McDonald's Restaurants are honoring First Responders next week during the September Eleventh National Day of Service and Remembrance, by offering them a free Small McCafe Smoothie.
Brad Davis, whose family owns and operates McDonald's Restaurants in Taylorville, Pana, Shelbyville, and Vandalia, tells Regional Radio News that all the First Responders have to do, is show a valid state-issued ID card.
[audio:BradDaviscut1Sept414.mp3]comment here[/audio]
Davis says this is the 2nd consecutive year for the local McDonald's Restaurants to honor the First Responders.
[audio:BradDaviscut2Sept414.mp3]comment here[/audio]
And, Davis said the reaction of First Responders to their Free Smoothie last year, was gratifying.
[audio:BradDaviscut3Sept414.mp3]comment here[/audio]
First Responders are invited to show their valid state-issued ID card to get their free Small McCafe Smoothie September 8th thru the 12th at the local McDonald's.
As heard on Newstalk WTIM 96.3, Taylorville defeated Bartonville Limestone with a score of 31-7.
As heard on WMKR Genuine Country 94.3, Illini West defeated Central A&M with a score of 44-7.
As heard on WSVZ New Country 98.3, Shelbyville defeated Rantoul with a score of 56-20.
All the games were streamed online at taylorvilledailynews.com.
THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:
Edward White, 40, of Pana was arrested on September 4th for possession of methamphetamine and manufacturing material.
THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:
On September 24th, officers were dispatched to Taylorville High School for a battery that had been taken. A female juvenile was arrested for batrtery.
THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:
9-4-14 2 EMS
9-5-14 1EMS, 1 Motor Vehicle Accident
An Illinois State Senator has received an award. Chapin Rose was given the “Friend of Agriculture Award”by the Dewitt County Farm Bureau. The Senator says he's pleased to get the recognition:
Fall programs are underway at the Christian County YMCA. Director Chris Weitenhiller says it got underway over the weekend:
[audio:weitenhillerymca090814.mp3]comment here[/audio]
Find out more about the Y's programs at ccymca.org or call 287-7271. The YMCA is located at 900
The Pana Save-A-Lot held a Customer Appreciation Day in conjunction with Pepsi, on Friday.
The day included special pricing on Pepsi products, as well as a cookout where all proceeds were donated to the Pana Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry.
Miller Media Group radio station WMKR Genuine Country 94-point-3 broadcast live from the event, and co-owner Tim Christer said the turnout for the cookout was great.
[audio:TimChristercut1Sept514.mp3]comment here[/audio]
And Christer says the response to his new Save-A-Lot store in Pana from the listening area has been great.
[audio:TimChristercut2Sept514.mp3]comment here[/audio]
Tim and his wife Jennifer have owned and operated the Pana Save-A-Lot for just over 2 years, and have been in the grocery business in Pana for many years.
Due to inclement weather the Taylorville and Shelbyville Football Games have been rescheduled for Saturday. The Taylorville High School game has a pregame set for 4:45pm. The Shelbyville High School game has a pregame set for 1:50pm.
The Taylorville Mainstreet Farmers Market is still offering green beans, even though many people consider them to be a spring vegetable. Market Manager Ed Downs says produce farmers do things a little differently than the home gardener:
[audio:farmersmktgreenbeans080514.mp3]comment here[/audio]
The Farmers Market features all kinds of produce, along with freshly baked goods and arts and craft items. It takes place Saturday from 9am till 12:30pm on the Taylorville Square.
The 2015 LEAD Program is already being planned. Chris Casey, Community and Economic Development Educator for the University of Illinois Extension says they have some interesting things planned:
[audio:caseylead090514.mp3]comment here[/audio]
Call your local Extension Office to find out more.
Taylorville Police are reminding you that kids are back in school and extra caution in driving is called for. Assistant Police Chief Brian Hile says you need to remember that talking on your cell phone is illegal when you are driving. He also asks for your patience when driving in school zones.
The Assistant Chief says they continue to receive complaints from the public concerning cell phone use, and says they will conduct enforcement details and there will be zero tolerance for violators.
An event designed to raise money to help cystic fibrosis victims will take place at the end of the month. Shelby Memorial Hospital CFO Phil Miller tells Regional Radio Meliah was a special person:
[audio:millerphilcf090514.mp3]comment here[/audio]
Meliah Miller was not only an employee of Shelby Memorial Hospital, she was also Phil Miller's sister-in-law. Again, the Shelby County Cystic Fibrosis Event will be September 27th.
Sarah Bush Lincoln Hospital in Mattoon is working to help kids get healthy. Sarah Betts tells Regional Radio there are some pretty tall challenges being issued:
THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:
Joshua Smothers, 29, of Frankfort, Illinois was arrested on September 3rd for domestic battery.
Santo Tomas, 33, of Taylorville was arrested on September 3rd for disorderly conduct.
ACCIDENTS:
On September 3rd, Richard Kennedy, 64, of Taylorville was traveling north on 1400 East about 1034 North. Cheryl Izatt, 64, of Taylorville was traveling south bound at the same location. Kennedy advised that she saw Izatt coming and started to get off the roadway. Izatt clipped Kennedy and damaged the mirrors on both vehicles.
On September 2, Joseph Lomprez, 54, of Pana was east bound on Market Street. He stopped at the stop sign, then proceeded through the intersection into the path of travel of Gary Jones, 43, of Taylorville. Jones them traveling south bound, collided with Lomprez.
On September 3rd, Randy Perugino, 24, of Kincaid was traveling north bound on County Highway #5 approximately ½ mile south of township road 1975 North. Perugino stated an approaching vehicle come into his lane of traffic and he veered off the roadway to the right to avoid a collision He lost control of his 1995 Chevy Silverado while attempting to come back on the roadway. He rotated counter-clockwise and skidded across the south bound lane of traffic. Perugino struck the west ditch and over turned. His vehicle came to rest on its wheels facing west. Perugina received total damage to his 1995 Chevy Silverado. All occupants of his vehicle were transported by ambulance to Springfield Hopitals.
THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING:
On August 30th, David Lowis, 55, of Waverly, Illinois was traveling west on East Park Street at the traffic signal. Marilyn Casteel, 67, of Taylorville said she had a green light. Casteel was attempting to turn left onto Webster Street from Spresser Street. Casteel turned directly into the path of Lowis, causing a collision.
THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORT THE FOLLOWING CALLS:
9-2-14 1 EMS, 1 Motor Vehicle Accident
9-3-14 1 EMS, 1 Automatic Alarm
9-4-14 1 EMS
THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:
Jacob Conaway, 23, of Edinburg was arrested on September 2nd on a bond forfeiture warrant for possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia.
Joshua Boyle, 30, was arrested on September 2nd for aggregated fleeing and eluding officers, driving on a revoked license, leaving the scene of an accident, vehicle damage and reckless driving.
Investing your money abroad can be a money maker. Investment Professional Steve Henry says it can be profitable if you know what you're doing:
State budget cuts have continued to put pressure on Illinois school districts, and Taylorville is no exception. Superintendent of Taylorville Schools Dr. Greg Fursteneau says he's not sure where it will end:
[audio:fursteneausb16090414.mp3]comment here[/audio]
For several years now, Illinois Schools have only been receiving 89% of their usual funding.
A recent discussion concerning the Federal Trade Commission returning money to ripped off consumers sparked a lot of interest. Public Advocate Mac McGuire tells Regional Radio he got several requests for more info:
A local credit union will soon offer a new mobile app for its members. Will Perkins of the Taylorville Community Credit Union says the new app is intended to make accessing your account easier:
[audio:perkinstccumobileapp090414.mp3]comment here[/audio]
TCCU has locations in Taylorville, Hillsboro and Litchfield.
Chillifest is now just weeks away. CEO of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Patty Hornbuckle says the annual event is always a big hit with the kids, and this year will be no exception:
[audio:pattykidstuff090214.mp3]comment here[/audio]
This year's Chillifest will be rolled in with the City of Taylorville and Christian County's 175th anniversary. It takes place October 4th and 5th.
The Taylorville Kiwanis Club learned about several upcoming Kiwanis events, during their business meeting at Tuesday's weekly luncheon at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.
Committee chairs reported on upcoming activities to help children and youth in the Taylorville community and around the world.
Kiwanis members will be raising money on local street corners, September 19th and 20th, during their annual Peanut Days. The public receives a package of peanuts as a “thank you” for any monetary donation.
The local Kiwanis Club will hold their annual Installation and Awards Banquet at noon on Tuesday, September 30th. It will also celebrate the club's 60th anniversary.
And, the Taylorville Kiwanis Club will be participating in the Taylorville and Christian County 175th Anniversary Parade on October 4th. Charter members and this year's “Kiwanian of the Year” will be honored by riding in the parade.
The Taylorville Kiwanis Club is part of global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time. Weekly meetings are held Tuesdays at noon at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium. For information on the club, go to taylorvillekiwanis.com.
Regional Radio News has learned that EquiPower Resources Corporation, an investment group that purchased the Kincaid Power Station less than a year ago, has sold the Kincaid plant along with several other plants around the country, to Dynegy, Incorporated.
Businesswire-dot-com is reporting that agreements have been signed for the transaction to occur by the end of first quarter 2015.
In the announcement, Dynagy officials indicated that the additional plants being bought will significantly improve their financial outlook by tripling their 2015 adjusted cash flow.
The purchase of the plants from EquiPower Resources by Dynagy will be financed with a combination of Dynegy Inc. issuing 5-billion dollars in new unsecured bonds and one-point-2-5 billion in equity and equity-linked securities. Included in the equity figure is 200-million dollars of Dynegy common stock that will be issued to ECP as part of the transaction consideration at closing.
Congressman Rodney Davis of Taylorville is not a big supporter of increasing the minimum wage. However, the 13th District Representative tells Regional Radio News that he could support an increase under certain circumstances:
[audio:davisminwage090214.mp3]comment here[/audio]
The Illinois Republican will face Democrat Ann Callis in the upcoming November elections.
September is National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month. Joyce Fikri of the St. Louis Dairy Council says it's a problem that's getting more and more attention:
The Taylorville City Council met Tuesday night due to the Labor Day holiday, and passed a number of motions in their just over one-hour meeting.
The biggest discussion of the night came when a motion was made to direct Taylorville City Attorney Rocci Romano to prepare an ordinance making a property owner responsible for part of the maintenance and repair of a sewer line up to and including the main tap. This motion came from the Street and Sewer Committee after 3 meetings and a number of hours of discussion, and has the potential of affecting some 30 property owners where the City found broken sewer lines. Alderman Ernie Dorchinez, felt it was unfair to penalize property owners for problems they didn't create.
[audio:DorchinezaudioSept214.mp3]comment here[/audio]
The motion to direct the City Attorney to prepare the ordinance, passed with Dorchinez casting the only “no” vote.
Taylorville City Aldermen Tuesday night at their meeting approved motions passing a resolution signing a new agreement with the City of Charleston for providing billing for Taylorville Fire Department ambulance runs; they OK'd an intergovernmental agreement regarding loaning equipment to Taylorville Township; they amended the city's building permit code; they approved amending an ordinance on private sanitary sewage disposal systems; and directed the City Attorney to prepare an intergovernmental agreement regarding allowing other governmental entities to use the Sewer Department's TV sewer truck.
The Taylorville City Council Tuesday night approved a number of requests from non-profit organizations. The Council OK'd the request of St. Mary's Church to block off South Main from West Adams to the 2nd alley past St. Mary's School, from Friday, September 19th at 4pm to Sunday, September 21st at 6pm for the annual St. Mary's Church Parish Fiesta; they approved the Zombie Run, Walk, and Crawl 5-K sponsored by the Taylorville Memorial Hospital for the Relay for Life on October 25th, with the corners of Franklin and Main, south on Main to Manners Park to be blocked off starting at 5:30pm; they OK'd the Knights of Columbus Charitable Fund Drive for their annual Tootsie Roll fund-raiser at the corner of South Webster and West Main Cross on September 26th and 27th; and they cleaned up language in city code for some existing 4-way stops.
Taylorville Aldermen Tuesday night passed several motions that came out of various committees. The Council OK'd an appraisal on a property at 803 East Franklin; they contributed 5-thousand dollars to the Christian County Senior Citizens; they purchased a color copier at a cost of just over 10-thousand dollars for the City Clerk's office; and OK'd the purchase by the Municipal Band of a new sound system costing no more than 17-hundred 50-dollars. Aldermen also changed the date of their September Ordinance and Finance Committee meetings from September 18th to September 17th; and changed the date of the Council's September Street and Sewer, and Public Facilities Committee meetings to September 24th.
Taylorville alderman Larry Budd expressed his dismay at a large dirt pile in his ward, at Tuesday night's City Council meeting. Budd told the Council that land owner Chris Huddleston, who recently bought 2 lots on Cherokee Street to reportedly build duplexes, has been stockpiling dirt on the site, and is now allegedly advertising the dirt for sale. Budd is concerned about the large piles of dirt on the site and the weeds growing on the piles. Budd was told by City Attorney Rocci Romano, to contact the city's zoning officer for possible violations of the city's zoning and weed ordinances.
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THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:
Melissa Owens, 39, of Taylorville was arrested on August 31st for retail theft.
Terry Edwards, 26, of Edinburg was arrested on August 30th for battery.
William Shride, 38, of Taylorville was arrested on August 30th for driving on a revoked license.
Rodney Smith, 23, of Assumption was arrested on September 1st on a bond forfeiture warrant for driving on a suspended license.
Brianna Hall, 23, of Taylorville was arrested on September 2nd for domestic battery.
Hayden Klespitz, 48, of Pana was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for theft.
Michael Stalnaker, 24, was arrested on September 1st on a bond forfeiture warrant for failure to appear.
Matthew Norris, 17, of Taylorville was arrested on September 1st for assault.
Jeffery Sparks, 40, of Vandalia was arrested on August 29th for domestic battery and driving on a revoked/suspended license.
ACCIDENTS:
On August 18, Marilyn Hall, 87 of Taylorville was traveling southbound on Rt. 48 spproximately ½ mile north of township road 965 East. She was slowing to stop at a portable traffic light at the north end of the construction area. Logan Elson, 42, of Morrisonville was also traveling south bound and was behind Hall. Both Elson and Hall stopped at the traffic light. Occupants of both vehicles said the light changed to green and Hall preceded to the stop line. Elson began to proceed. Occupants then said the light quickly changed to yellow then red. Hall said she saw the lights change and applied her brakes. Elson was unable to stop in time to avoid striking Hall.
Alan Bailey 38, of Taylorville was traveling west bound on 900 North Road in his 2008 Ford Crown Victoria was was unable to stop to avoid striking a deer.
Sandra Freeman, 63, of Taylorville was west bound on Spresser Street approximately 100 feet east of Cheney Street when a vehicle in front of her suddenly slowed and turned into a parking lot. Freeman braked to avoid striking the turning vehicle. Joshua Sutton, 22, of Taylorville was also west bound on Spresser Street behind Freeman. Sutton was unable to stop before striking the rear of Freeman's 2008 Dodge Caravan.
Pamela Wright, 57, of Pana was heading north bound on Illinois Rt, 29. She slowed to turn right onto West Hedge Street. Barbara Tipsword, 61, of Pana failed to reduce speed to avoid an accident and rear ended Wright. No property damage occurred . Wright sustained rear end damage and was able to drive away. Tipsword received front end damage.
THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:
8-29-14 1 EMS
8-30-14 2 EMS, 1 Illegal Burn, 1 Motor Vehicle Accident
8-31-14 1 Public Assist, 3 EMS, 1 Alarm
9-1-14 4 EMS
The annual Kincaid Labor Day Picnic is underway. A highlight of the event was an appearance by the popular Country group Brushville along with other live acts. The Picnic features rides, food and entertainment.
Monday's events include a planned car show. Also on the schedule, Talent Showcases, Bocci Ball and Washer Tournaments and live music in the afternoon.
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